HornbeamBase 'Rockhampton Red'

'Rockhampton Red' is a relatively recent and exciting selection of the native Hornbeam, specifically chosen for its outstanding autumn colour. While the standard Hornbeam typically turns a clear yellow before browning, 'Rockhampton Red' develops vibrant shades of fiery orange and deep red, a rare feat for this species in the UK climate. It maintains all the excellent hedging qualities of the species: it is deciduous but, if pruned in mid-summer, it tends to retain its dried, copper-coloured leaves throughout the winter, providing year-round screening. It is incredibly hardy and much better suited to heavy clay soils and damp conditions than Beech (Fagus sylvatica). It produces hop-like fruiting catkins in autumn. This cultivar is perfect for creating a formal hedge with a seasonal "wow" factor, working well in both rural and urban settings. It is easy to clip and can be maintained at almost any height.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Moist but well-drained, including clay.

Hardiness: H7 — below −20°C.

Flowering: Apr, May.